Week 8 Discussion 1: The Investigation Of Computer-Related C

Week 8 Discussion 1 "The Investigation of Computer-Related Crime"

Discuss the general principles that investigators must follow when responding to a crime scene involving computers and electronic technology. Specifically, suggest at least two general principles for proper evidence preservation applicable to stand-alone personal computers, networked home personal computers, and network server business networks. Provide a rationale for each principle. Additionally, describe the major procedures investigators use to collect network trace evidence in computer-related crimes. Furthermore, speculate on the primary concern of investigators during evidence collection procedures and explain why this concern is valid, including justification for your reasoning.

Paper For Above instruction

Investigating computer-related crimes presents unique challenges that necessitate strict adherence to foundational principles of evidence collection and preservation. Proper procedures are essential to ensure the integrity and admissibility of digital evidence, which is often fragile and easily compromised. Among the core principles, two stand out as critical: first, "do not alter the state of an electronic device," and second, "identity, seize, and secure all electronic devices, including personal and portable devices." These principles underpin the integrity of the evidence and prevent contamination or inadvertent modification that could jeopardize a case.

Preventing alterations to digital evidence is paramount because computers and electronic media are inherently sensitive to changes. Even minor modifications—such as opening a file, changing a timestamp, or powering down a device improperly—can jeopardize the forensic integrity of the evidence. This principle emphasizes that digital evidence must be handled in a way that preserves its original state, often by isolating devices through measures like confiscation and using write-blocking tools during data acquisition. Such procedures prevent accidental or intentional modifications, ensuring that the evidence remains admissible in court. This is especially salient with stand-alone computers, where the absence of network connections simplifies preservation, but the vulnerability of data to accidental changes remains high.

Seizing and securing all electronic devices equally applies across various contexts, whether dealing with home personal computers or business network servers. Proper identification involves meticulous documentation of each device's state, configuration, and physical condition before collection. Securing involves physically locking or otherwise protecting the devices to prevent tampering or loss. Such measures create a verifiable chain of custody, establish evidence integrity, and facilitate subsequent forensic analysis. For example, if a networked server is compromised, investigators must seize it carefully, making sure to preserve logs and configurations that might be vital to forensic examination.

Following these principles leads naturally into procedures for collecting network trace evidence. These procedures include capturing network traffic through packet sniffers, analyzing logs from routers, firewalls, and servers, and documenting all interactions with the network during the relevant timeframe. Investigators must ensure that network traffic is captured in a manner that preserves data authenticity, such as using trusted tools and maintaining detailed logs of all activities. This process may involve isolating suspect devices to prevent further data exfiltration and ensuring that the collection process does not disturb the original data source.

The primary concern during evidence collection, particularly for network trace evidence, is maintaining the integrity and authenticity of the data. This involves preventing data alteration, ensuring that logs are unaltered, and that the evidence accurately reflects the original activity. Because digital evidence can be easily tampered with or accidentally modified—whether through improper handling, system crashes, or hacking attempts—the validity of the evidence hinges on rigorous chain-of-custody procedures and the use of write-proof tools. This concern is valid because courts require that evidence be shown to be untainted and accurately preserved. Failure to do so can lead to evidence being inadmissible, ultimately compromising the prosecution’s case and allowing perpetrators to escape justice.

References

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